Signs of Arthritis in Pets

You might be familiar with arthritis in people. As we age, the cushioning between our bones weakens and thins, which allows the bones to rub together during movement. This can also happen in pets. Your pet will be more likely to develop arthritis if he or she has sustained joint injuries in the past or suffer from joint development problems such as hip dysplasia. While some breeds are more likely to develop arthritis than others, it remains a common ailment.

How Do You Know If Your Pet Has Arthritis?

If your pet has slowed down or no longer appears as interested in walks or playing, your pet may have arthritis. Another sign of arthritis is difficulty standing up or lying down. Pets with arthritis may be hesitant to jump and will need assistance climbing in and out of vehicles. Arthritis may be more difficult to detect in cats and other pets as they are often less active and do not exhibit symptoms as clearly.

If our veterinarian determines that your pet has arthritis, they may recommend treatment options and lifestyle changes to minimize the impact of arthritis. This includes walking a dog with arthritis frequently or investing in pet furniture and beds that are lower to the ground. Helping an obese pet to lose weight can also reduce strain on their joints and potentially alleviate some of the discomfort caused by arthritis.

What Do You Give a Dog for Arthritis?

While there is no cure for arthritis and the condition will worsen over time, you can use pain medication to help your pet remain as comfortable as possible. This is why it is important to look for the symptoms of arthritis and notify your veterinarian as soon as you notice them.

Veterinarian in Rancho Cucamonga

For more information regarding how we address arthritis, arthritis medication, or to schedule an appointment, contact Day Creek Animal Hospital at (909) 646-7387.